ippudo V Brooklyn

Ippudo V Is a Vegan Outpost of the Famous Ramen Shop

"A newly opened, vegan‑focused outpost of a well‑known ramen chain (the ‘V’ denotes vegan), this restaurant sits in the bridge‑overpass part of Dumbo at a windy, construction‑heavy intersection rather than the waterfront. The space reads partly like a gift shop—selling branded hoodies, tie‑dye T‑shirts, caps and bottles—then opens into an open kitchen facing a brightly lit bar with coffee‑table books and faux ivy, giving a co‑working‑space vibe. The menu, delivered via a QR code on a wood block, features four plant‑based broths—soy, miso, “chicken,” and “pork”—that are garnished with thoughtfully prepared vegetables (a grilled tomato slice, onion tempura, etc.). The kitchen largely avoids heavy Impossible‑style meats, though a “soy meat” turns up in one ramen and a plant‑based “pork” seems present in the gyoza; a plant‑based “tuna” in some sushi was described as skippable. The tonkotsu‑inspired broth is satisfyingly cloudy, salty and savory, carrying thick, curly noodles that remain chewy, while the clearer poultrylike broth pairs with thinner wheat noodles and a heavy dose of leeks, cabbage and garlic chips. Servers may suggest stirring in natto for extra depth, and the miso ramen is presented theatrically under a glass dome that releases woody smoke. Overall, bowl for bowl the vegan outpost can rival (or even best) busier sister locations, but prominent “vegan ramen” signage and its off‑waterfront Dumbo address mean it hasn’t yet drawn the same lines." - Tammie Teclemariam